This season’s ram sales have been particularly positive, with breeders breaking records throughout the country.

PGG Wrightson Livestock National Genetics Manager Callum Stewart says the ram sales to date have lifted prices by around ten per cent, with some sales resulting in prices increasing between 
20 and 30 per cent.

“Farmers have reaped the benefits of a strong commercial selling season, and are prepared to invest those returns to keep improving production. Performance and phenotype and FE Tolerant are highly sought after. Those breeders demonstrating good quality genetics are receiving exceptional demand.

“Sales results have been consistently buoyant across the country. When the market sees quality genetics, farmers are prepared to purchase,” he said.

Highlights include Meadowslea, Fairlie in late November, where 275 rams sold for an average of $1372; Glengarry Poll Dorset, Feilding, selling 128 rams averaging $1476; Merrydowns, Southland where 126 Romney rams sold averaging $1585 and 79 Southdowns fetched an average of $1167 in early December. Later in December at Kikitangeo Romney, Wellsford 112 rams averaged $1948; at Turiroa, Wairoa 104 terminal rams sold on average at $1164; and Wharatoa, Clydevale cleared 266 rams of various breeds, averaging $1443.

Meanwhile, the absence of rain in several North Island districts will influence the livestock market, says PGG Wrightson Livestock national sales manager Matt Macfie.

“Dry conditions, particularly in the Far North, also in the King Country, Coromandel and Manawatu, are prompting some farmers to offer store stock earlier than anticipated. Hill country in these districts is beginning to look barren and with feed sufficient to graze through the next two months lacking, plenty of stock will come to the market sooner rather than later.

“At the same time, fluctuating Chinese demand has brought an anticipated price correction of around $1 for sheep. Although this was foreseen, it has come quicker than expected. Farmers operating in this market will still make good money, though below the peak levels on offer late last year,” he said.

To find out more about Ram Sales around NZ head here.